About PWDs
The
Portuguese water dog is not yet common in the United States, although it is
steadily rising in popularity. As the name implies, the breed hails from
Portugal where it is a much loved and hard working companion of fishermen.
Portuguese water dogs are medium sized, strong swimmers and active energetic
family pets.
Appearance
The Portuguese water dog is a medium sized dog with either a longhaired coat or
curly coat. Common coat colors include black, white, various tones of brown or
combinations of these colors. The hair coat infrequently sheds and is
water-resistant. The feet are webbed, which explains their strength as swimmers.
Size
The Portuguese water dog stands 20 to 23 inches at the shoulder and weighs
between 42 to 60 pounds.
Personality
Friendly and active, the Portuguese water dog makes an excellent pet for an
active family, especially those who enjoy water sports or outdoor activities.
Home and Family Relations
Since their coats infrequently shed, this is an excellent breed for people with
allergies. The water resistant hair coat allows the dog to spend a lot of time
outdoors.
Training
The Portuguese water dog is an intelligent and obedient dog that takes well to
training. They thoroughly enjoy water and excel at water sports and activities.
Training should begin early in their life.
Special Care
The Portuguese water dog is not a good choice for people looking for a “couch
potato” dog. This is an active and energetic dog that craves exercise. They
seem to have boundless energy and enjoying human companiship. Early
socialization is critical to help socialize..
Common
Diseases and Disorders
The Portuguese water dog is a relatively healthy dog with few health concerns.
Some diseases that have been reported in this breed include:
Progressive
retinal atrophy is a degenerative disease of the eyes that slowly
results in blindness.
Hip
dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joints and can result in pain,
limping and arthritis.
Alopecia
is a disorder of hair loss.
In addition, Portuguese water dogs are prone to ear infections or swimmer’s
ears if they tend to swim a lot. Make sure their ears are thoroughly dried after
each swim.
The average life span of the Portuguese water dog is 10 to 12 years.
Please realize that each dog is unique and may display other
characteristics. This profile provides generally accepted breed information
only.
Above Article
from; http://petplace.netscape.com/articles/artShow.asp?artID=909
Marilyn
Rimmer (Questar) Comments on Personality:
Portuguese Water Dogs are very friendly and active, This breed are companion dogs, which means they always want be with you, They do not do well being
outside dogs. Marilyn Rimmer states, "If I go to the bathroom, these
dogs are either by the door trying to get in to be with me, or in the bathroom
with me."